Enzo Maresca reveals reason Christopher Nkunku does not start in Premier League for Chelsea

The former Leipzig forward has hit a purple patch of form in recent weeks - but has had to settle for several substitute appearances in the Premier League

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has revealed why Christopher Nkunku does not always start for the club.

In recent games, Nkunku's performances have arguably warranted a spot in Maresca's first XI - his late strike against Bournemouth proved decisive in handing Chelsea three points. Plus, his midweek hat-trick in the Carabao Cup against Barrow is further evidence of what he can do.

However, his performance was not enough to earn him a starting place against West Ham United last weekend - Nkunku featured from the bench, replacing Nicolas Jackson on the 64th minute.

Speaking in his press conference ahead of the Blues' clash with Brighton at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, Maresca said: "I've told them since day one we can't play with seven attacking players. Jackson played in the Premier League and scored two goals. Nkunku played the other day and scored three.

"This is good because not one of them can drop. It’s impossible for them to be at the same level for all season. But it’s important that they compete with each other and they are ready when we give them minutes."

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In fairness to Jackson, he has also been in fine form with four goals and two assists so far this term, to add to his 14 Premier League strikes that helped Chelsea to a sixth-place finish under Mauricio Pochettino last season.

Maresca also mentioned how opportunities for several other attacking players will be afforded, explaining: "Pedro [Neto] did well the other day, Misha [Mudryk] did well. All of them, in fact. In defence, Benoit [Badiashile] did well, also Axel [Disasi] and Renato [Veiga] and also Cesare [Casadei] – I thought he did a fantastic game the other day.

"It’s important when there is a chance, be it five minutes, 10 minutes, half-an-hour or from the start, that the players give everything, so it’s important."

A victory against the Seagulls would see Chelsea to 13 points and ensure they remain unbeaten since the opening day loss to Manchester City in August.

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